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In response to a request from a representative of Kistler Communications, Inc. (SIC-4225), Denver, Colorado, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at that facility due to employee exposure to polychlorinated-biphenyls (1336363) (PCBs), polychlorinated-dioxins, or polychlorinated-dibenzofurans. A white residue was found on catalogues shipped to this company for storage from the publishing department of Gates Rubber Company. A fire and a transformer spill had occurred earlier at Gates and it was thought that these events contaminated several crates of materials which were sent to Kistler. All analyses for PCBs were negative. Analyses for metals indicated the presence of lead (7439921), zinc (7440666), and magnesium (7439954), at concentrations of 0.25, 0.42, and 0.31 percent respectively. The pH level of the grayish/white material on the cartons was 10.7, excessively high. The high alkalinity could have been responsible for the rash experienced by one worker. The authors conclude that the residue did not contain PCBs or other polychlorinated compounds, but the alkalinity of the residue appeared to be a health hazard to workers handling the catalogues. The authors recommend that Gates determine the source of the grayish/white material and avoid future contamination of printed matter. Personal protective clothing, including respirators, gloves, and possibly garments should be worn while removing this material from the cartons. Good personal hygiene measures should be carefully followed while this material is being removed.